1. Calculate the net present value
Using the NPER (number of periods) or NPV (net present value) function in Excel you can calculate the net present value of a future or present investment.

2. Input the value for rate
Input the rate at which the investment earns interest. This rate will determine the present value of future cash flows.

3. Input the value for cash flows
Input the value of cash flows which can be negative or positive. Negative cash flows are those when you pay an amount and positive are when you receive an amount.

4. Input the value for present value
Input the present value of the sum of cash flows. This must be a negative value.

5. View the value for NPER or NPV
After inputting all the three values, check the output value of NPER or NPV to see the present value.